Pace SBDC Service Guidelines FAQ’s

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​How do I request an appointment with a Business Advisor?

To schedule an appointment with a business advisor, please complete the brief intake form. Once submitted, our center will contact you to schedule an appointment.

 

Can appointments with a business advisor be held remotely?

Yes, appointments with a business advisor can be over the phone, or by a video call.

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What should I prepare for the first appointment?

To optimize your time with a business advisor, we suggest that clients come in with specific questions and/or topics of interest to help drive the initial discussion. Further, clients should be prepared to speak about their proposed/existing products and services, and to bring in a sample if relevant to provide insight into their business venture.

 

Do I have to be in business to meet with an advisor?

Not necessarily, though you should have a specific business venture in mind and/or entrepreneurial experience, ideally in an industry where you have prior knowledge and/or contacts.

 

Do you offer counseling in languages other than English?

Yes, our business advisors can offer counseling sessions in Spanish. Please request this in your initial inquiry to our center.

 

How does the SBDC differ from the SBA and SCORE?

The Pace SBDC provides in-depth and confidential one-on-one business advisement, training and research to help small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs launch or grow their business, all at no cost to our clients. Our center is one of nearly 1,000 SBDCs nationwide, and is staffed by certified full-time business advisors. The SBDC network serves as a resource partner of the SBA to counsel, mentor and train small businesses. SCORE is an alternate SBA resource provider that is comprised of volunteer business counselors. You are welcome to work with an SBA business advisor as well as a SCORE counselor.